Why green grapes vanished from Indian markets this New Year’s Eve– watch this viral video to know

This New Year’s Eve, green grapes turned into one of the most sought-after items in markets across India. Shoppers rushed to buy them, following a Spanish tradition that has been gaining attention in the country. So high was the demand that many went home without a single grape, showing just how quickly global customs are catching on here.

The 12 grapes ritual

The trend is inspired by las doce uvas de la suerte, or twelve lucky grapes, a Spanish custom. People eat one grape for each month at midnight to invite luck and positivity for the year ahead.

A shopkeeper shared the rush he faced at his store. “They told me that after 12 am, eating 12 grapes under the table can bring good luck,” he said, recalling what customers told him.

When asked if he had any grapes left, he explained, “I don't have any left. There is less than a 10 per cent chance that you will find it in the market.” He added, “200-300 people may have left empty-handed, and I can't even count how many would have bought the grapes.” He also clarified that only green grapes were suitable for the tradition; red or other varieties could not be used.

Customers share their struggles online

The shortage became a talking point on social media, with many sharing their own experiences.

“My father found them after roaming the entire market,” said one user. Another wrote, “I could not find green grapes. Would have to settle with the black ones.”

Some users even suggested ways to turn the craze into a business. “It could be a nice business idea. Instead of giving away the entire grapes, they can just make a packet of 12 and label it as New Year grapes or something, and sell it at a normal price or even at a high price. Anyways, people are gonna buy due to the shortage,” one comment read. Another added, “Even in my locality, a shopkeeper was asking if there was any puja as all the grapes had been sold out.”

A century-old Spanish tradition

While the 12-grape ritual is trending in India now, it has a history of over 100 years in Spain. In 1909, farmers brought a large grape harvest to Madrid to sell during the New Year celebrations. Over time, eating one grape for each month became a symbol of luck and a way to start the year with positive intentions.
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